40 The Natural Historg 



that 1 have seen several hundred Pounds "won and lost in a 

 short time. 



Coch-Fighting they greatly admire, which Birds they en- 

 deavor to procure from England and Ireland, and to that 

 intent, employ Masters of Ships, and other Trading Persons 

 to supply them. 



Wreslling, Leaping, and such Activities are much used by 

 them; yet I never observed any Foot Paces. 



Dancing they are all fond of, especially Avhen they can get 

 a Fiddle, or Bag-pipe; at this they will continue Hours 

 together, nay, so attach'd are they to this darling Amuse- 

 ment, that if they can't procure Musick, they Avill sing for 

 themselves. Musick, and Musical Instruments being very 

 scarce in Carolina. 



These are the most material Observations I have made in 

 respect of their usual Diversions. 



But they have a particular Season, which is only at their 

 Wheat-Harvest, not to be omitted ; this they celebrate with 

 great Solemnity, it is in the beginning of June, at which 

 time "the Planters notify to each other, that they design to 

 reap the aforesaid Grain, on a certain Day, some send their 

 Negroes to assist, others only go to partake of the great Feasts, 

 &c. Some will frequently come twenty, nay thirty Miles on 

 this Occasion, the Entertainments are great, and the whole 

 Scene pleasant and diverting; but if they can get ^lusick to 

 indulge this Mirth, it greatly adds to the Pleasure of the 

 Feast. It must be confest, that this annual Pevelling is 

 very expensive to the Planters, but as its customary, few 

 omit it, nor have they ever those ])ublick DiNcrsious at the 

 reaping any other Grain but the European Wheat. 



I am sensible that many Persons, who by (licir ^lisbe- 

 haviour in lliis Country, were obliged to (piit it, ]ia\t' uin- 



liciously 



